Hector Ochoa believes that all people should have access to total body wellness, regardless of their income or academic status. This belief is what inspires his work at UC CalFresh Cooperative Extension as a Community Education Supervisor. Hector works to customize and implement programs to improve the health and wellness in the community. When he is not helping to improve the health of others, hes working on his own by hiking, skiing, cycling, and kayaking around the Lake Tahoe Basin.
Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Hector Ochoa!
Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
As the Community Education Supervisor for UC CalFresh Cooperative Extension, my responsibilities have included facilitating and coordinating nutrition programs throughout Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado and Tuolumne counties. We customize and implement programs to improve health and wellness for our communities. This includes working with and empowering school districts, community partners, youth and families to make sustainable changes and create local advocates.
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
I’m most proud of leading our expansion of nutrition education and youth development programs in South Lake Tahoe. I was able to advocate for investment in the community based on unmet needs and grow the team from a single educator serving the basin to three very strong and talented educators. This has enabled us to multiply our reach and impact from early childhood to young adults and for the first time, connect with older adults in our communities.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?
All should have equal access to total body wellness, regardless of income or academic status. This inspires me to help people improve environments, educate my community and enhance others’ lives through preventative lifestyle changes.
Who is your role model?
My grandmothers, Christine Castro and Micaela Ochoa, who always give me guidance, prayers and an ear. They have been pillars throughout my life in supporting my aspirations and dreams
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
I believe Tahoe chose me! About five years ago, I was looking for a change in my environment and found a position with UC CalFresh Nutation Education. I haven’t looked back since I received the acceptance call for the position. The community, environment and lifestyle make South Lake Tahoe a great place to live and thrive.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
I have been an active board member of the Boy’s and Girl’s Club of South Lake Tahoe for four years. Previously I was also a board member of Live Violence Free.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
You can find me hiking the great rocky mountains, carving up the slopes, dancing, cycling the streets, kayaking around the lake, and fishing with friends in my down time. I also enjoy reading nutrition and food articles of all types and staying up to date on current research. If you do not see me outside, I am most likely in the kitchen cooking away!
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds
Volleyball courts at South Lake Tahoe rec center and LTCC fitness education center. Jalisco’s, Oyster bar, Artemis, Basecamp pizza, and Getaway café.
Do you know a deserving young professional? Nominate them here.